Interview: Rising 2019 California Talent Jake Medders Making Shift Back to LB for Arcadia

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

The 2016 season was a learning experience for rising California talent Jake Medders. Being the ultimate team player, Medders slipped down from his natural linebacker spot to defensive tackle helping Arcadia High School to a 9-3 season. The time spent in the trenches will help him immensely going forward as he sets the tone for a breakout season on the gridiron in 2017.

Medders started all seven games played for the Apaches filling the role of defensive tackle in the team’s 3-4 alignment. Even though playing tackle might not be in his future, the time was well spent reading the keys given from offensive linemen forcing a use of hands to shake off blocks to rack up tackles. The stat sheet in 2017 will reflect the time spent going up against the big uglies a year ago but will also give him a better opportunity to affect the game playing middle and weak-side linebacker. One thing is certain, Medders already has a knack for making plays behind the line of scrimmage. The 6-3, 210 pound, defender had 18 total tackles securing eight of those for a loss. Another thing aiding in his progress on the field, being a true two-way player also starting at tight end for the Apaches.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with one of California’s 2019 under the radar prospects getting insight on his sophomore season while finding out how his game is evolving during spring workouts.

Interview

Jake, how did your sophomore season go on the field?

It went pretty well considering they moved me from linebacker to defensive tackle.”

What were some of the adjustments you had to make to your game during your first season of varsity football?

“I had to learn to adjust faster to the game and read plays fast. I had to learn how to deal with bigger guys compared to freshman football.”

You played a lot of defensive tackle last season for the Apaches, are you staying on the line in 2017 or are you moving to a different position?

“Yes. I am moving to weak-side backer and middle linebacker.”

Did you also start at tight end last year?

“Yes. I was more of a blocking tight end last year.”

How will the coaches use you within the offense during the 2017 season?

“I will be used as a blocking tight end but go out more on patterns this year.”

Are you excited about the bigger role?

“Yes, I am.”

What are you working on during the off-season ahead of your junior season?

“I’m working on gaining weight and getting stronger. I am also learning more about how to play linebacker. I’m working on my speed and agility too.”

What is your weight gain goal?

“I’d like to be 215 to 220 by the start of the season.”

You have the frame for that. That should be easy for you. Have you maxed out this off-season?

“I did bench on Tuesday. My deadlift is 420, squat 405, and I got 265 on bench.”

Are you playing 7v7 ball?

“Yes.”

How is that helping your game?

“7v7 is helping me adjust more to reading routes and working from receiver 2 to receiver 1. I’m working against faster guys than what I went up against on the line last year.”

Have you attended any camps this spring?

“I went to a Rivals camp. I’m planning on attending some camps this summer.”

Which camps might you attend this summer?

“USC, Washington State, and Fresno State are the ones I have on my schedule so far.”

Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you?

“On Tuesday I received a transcript request from Northwestern. I have talked to coaches from Portland State, Fresno State, Pungent Sound, and TCU. Boise State is showing interest as well. I plan on going to one of their camps this summer too.”

Have you taken any unofficial visits?

“Not yet, but I plan on taking some this summer.”

Do you have any unofficial visits planned coming up?

“So far I have Colorado School of Mines, Washington State, and Fresno State.”

What is your cumulative GPA?

“3.5.”

What is your favorite subject in school?

“Math.”

Is there a player at the collegiate or NFL level you watch to learn more about the game?

“For my offensive position I like watching Rob Gronkowski (New England Patriots). For my defensive position I like watching Von Miller (Denver Broncos) and Luke Kuechly (Carolina Panthers).”

Last question. What do you love about the game of football?

“I just like being able to go out there and hit people. I like being part of a real team sport. In football, you cannot win with one good player, you have to have a well-rounded team to win. You have to be like family in football to win.”

Jake, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your spring practices.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Jake Medders (May 5, 2017).

Photo credit: Medders family; Jake Medders 7v7 action.